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Shoes
Shoes are a major and very important investment. In Texas, as in other
parts of the South, getting shoes was a problem during the war. Some plantations were able to make their own, while others
wore moccasins or went barefoot. Some women relented and wore men's
shoes.
For most reenactments in Texas some kind of shoes
are recommended. The type of reproduction shoe you purchase will be determined by your impression; a working, lower class
impression would call for a more sturdy boot or a moccasin; however, before deciding on moccasins, do your research to ensure
the type you purchase are indeed similar to those worn in Texas during the 1860s. A middle or upper class impression shoe
would be a more fashionable style, but not as sturdy as a farm woman's boot. The middle and upper class also write about
wearing moccasins in the house, but this should also be researched thoroughly to ensure the correct style is purchased.
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| Reproductions |
Until you decide that you are able to purchase a
pair of good reproductions, a pair of "granny" or ankle boots from any shoe store will do for everyday. They should
be black leather, square or rounded toe, lace up the side or front, flat heeled, as smooth soled as possible (avoid the tire
tread look), and without any extra trim. Speed laces, the hooks rather than holes for the laces, are inappropriate and should
be removed. Be sure to try them on with your socks/stockings, because you will want them to be comfortable.
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| Modern substitutions |
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| Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, www.mfa.org |
Stockings
Stockings are generally above the knee, held up with garters. They
can be colored (white or cream most common however), patterned, embroidered, or plain. To begin with you may wish to purchase
cotton knee high socks. There are also patterns for knitted or sewn stockings.
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